UGC NET Questions (Paper – 1)

Non point source pollution comes from multiple diffuse sources over a wide area,such as agricultural fields and urban surfaces. The stem describes runoff from many fields entering a lake,which is difficult to trace to any single discharge point. Therefore this is a textbook case of non point pollution.

Option A:
Point source pollution would involve a single identifiable discharge such as a pipe or channel. The question clearly indicates many fields contributing to the runoff,so point source is not the correct classification.

Option B:
Non point pollution often carries nutrients,pesticides and sediments into water bodies,leading to eutrophication and ecological damage. Because the stem specifically cites fertilisers and pesticides from numerous fields,this option fits the scenario accurately.

Option C:
Industrial pollution typically comes from factories or processing plants and may be either point or non point depending on discharge patterns. However,the question focuses on agricultural rather than industrial activities,so this label is not suitable.

Option D:
Thermal pollution refers to the introduction of heated water or effluents that change the temperature of a water body. Although it can originate from point or non point sources,it is not the issue highlighted in the stem.